Unique things to do in Cumbria

Ullswater, quite rightly, is considered the most beautiful of the big lakes. It features bays & beaches, islands and lots of scenery. The ethos on the trips is always the same. Enjoy the scenery, have a chat, pass on a bit of knowledge to, and learn from, people looking for a similar venture. The first thing we'll do is sort out what's needed for the trip and introduce the boat. We use double ( tandem ) sea kayaks, unless there is an odd number of people on the trip, then the single is available. This is followed by a quick brief on what to do, then it's on to the water. There's no set route or furthest out point. I'll always take the group and the conditions into consideration. There is beautiful scenery all along the lake. The centre is closed on Tues & Wed ( We still launch from there ) so please use the toilets across the road from the gate. They are 50p & contactless. Free ones are a few minutes walk away. For Weekend afternoon trips, please park in the village rather than the Sailing Centre itself. Be aware, on sunny days, the area will get busy. Be aware that if you have a BMI of 26 or over, weigh over 102 Kg ( 16 Stones ), or have very little upper body strength, this Experience is not for you.

Alpacaly Ever After are delighted to be working with Forestry Commission England to bring our world famous alpaca walks to Whinlatter Forest! Trail through England’s only true mountain forest, get to know our delightful alpacas up close along the way, take part in feeding time and ask as many questions as you can think of! Once you've booked and found your way to Whinlatter Forest, we will meet you at the visitor centre. After an introduction and covid safety briefing we will walk you to our alpaca boys eagerly waiting for a walk and some snacks. We will show you how to walk an alpaca and introduce you to your walk buddy. Once we're all ready we'll head off on our walk through the forest, along the way our guide will tell you about your alpaca, answer any questions you have and give you a complete lesson in alpacas and llamas. We have several stops for snacking and selfies and an amazing viewpoint with views over the Lake District. On our journey we will be on multi-user trails and single tracks enjoying England's only Mountain Forest. At the end of our walk we will give you time to get selfies, feed the alpacas and ask any more burning questions. As a Non-Profit Social Enterprise all the income from our activities goes back into supporting the work we do re-homing and rescuing alpacas and llamas, and providing free and subsidised activities for 3rd sector organisation.

We'll step into the world of Beatrix Potter. Starting from her earliest experiences in the Lake District, where she fell in love with the stunning scenery and her future husband, we'll follow in her footsteps visiting the farm where she lived and explore her favourite places. Wray Castle is where we will start to take in the views she saw on her 16th birthday here and discover what it was that inspired her lifelong passion for the Lake District. Next we'll visit Hill Top, the house where she lived, still just as she left it, a magical, atmospheric place. As we stroll through Sawrey, the village she made her home, her books will come alive with the illustrations of Tom Kitten, Jemima Puddleduck and familiar buildings that leap straight off the page and into the landscape around us. We'll explore the charming village of Hawkshead where her husband worked as the local solicitor and see some of the huge Monk Coniston estate that she bought for the National Trust. Travelling in a comfy mini-van with air con, Wi-Fi & phone charging ports as one of only 6/7 passengers you will find it is easy to ask questions and join in the conversation (if you want to). There are lots of stops for photos. We will have stunning scenery all around us from beginning to end on this tour which also has a wealth of fascinating facts and stories which I'll help you to discover on our time together.

We are hosting private farm meet & greets for people to meet our alpaca herd which includes the opportunity for people to hand feed our girls and their babies ,hand feed and learn how to halter our boys then we will give a short safety talk and take them for a short walk around our field whilst taking in the amazing Surrounding scenery and learning how we care for them and to end your visit on a high you can meet our naughty goat and put him through his paces on his very own agility course but only if he feels like it Other things to note Please be aware that our experiences are all outside and may have to be postponed in bad weather Strictly no dogs

Come and spend the afternoon with me and we will explore 8 of the most spectacular lakes in England. I've spent many years getting to know this beautiful place, inside and out, and I can't wait to share it all with you. Travelling around in a small minivan with lots of stops, you'll soon get a sense of the place. I'll take you to secret spots you would never find by yourself and tell you about the legends of the Lakes and the stories of the people who have lived, loved and worked here. Climbing over mountain passes, diving down into valleys and uncovering over 500 million years of history, you'll see why this is one of the most visited places in England.

**minimum 2 adults per tour - rain does not stop play! Embark on an unforgettable journey with me, David (@davidjamesseed) in the foothills of the Lake District! Our adventure starts with an inclusive hike, perfect for all ages and abilities, leading to a stunning hill peak with views over Lake Coniston and the panoramic views of the Lake Districts rolling hills for miles and its surroundings. I will be barefoot and if you would like to join me (I highly recommend!) in connecting our feet to the earth, as our natural bodies were designed! This has fantastic benefits such as: reducing stress and inflammation, strengthening your immune system, tendons and ligaments and realigns the foot to its natural form (my guests genuinely love it!) Following the peak, our next stop is a secluded tarn, setting the stage for an invigorating wild swim. Before the swim, I will lead you through a transformative and deeply relaxing breathwork session, preparing your mind and body for the exhilarating cold water experience. Once we’ve dried off, I provide a mini picnic of snacks and refreshments before making our way back through the hills. I’m happy to take and photos and I will also document our journey, creating a complimentary video montage for you to keep and share. Dogs with low prey drive/good recall are very welcome - please bring a lead. I hope to see you soon! LETS GO! David

Explore Langdale - a Lake District Walking Tour This guided walk explores Langdale's valleys, one of the best walking areas in the Lake District. • Be shown around beautiful Lake District scenery with spectacular views • Suitable for a wide range of abilities – 4-5.5 hours which includes plenty of stops, leisurely pace, no mountains to climb • No need to plan or navigate – all admin made easy: on booking receive detailed information on where to meet, parking costs and information on what to bring with you. • No minimum numbers - I will always run the walk no matter how many people book, even if you are the only one • Get pictures of you with amazing backdrops taken by me along the way – no need to rely on selfies for those perfect memories and social media worthy shots • Chat, have fun, socialise and share your experience meeting new people • Learn about the area including how the landscape was formed, Lake District culture, history, plant and animal life and place names. • Morning refreshment stop and full lunch stop (with a view) • Chance to buy homemade local cakes from a Lake District farm • Doesn’t take up your whole day – back for early / mid afternoon with plenty of time for further afternoon exploring and dinner plans • Part of your booking cost goes towards important Lake District charities!

Experience the Lake District from a different perspective, from the water! INTO THE OUTSIDE's Kayak tours are suitable for everyone from beginners to seasoned paddlers travelling without their kit! We have many beautiful bodies of water here in the Lake District, the location will take into account where you are staying, what you would like to see and the forecast for the day (please bear in mind that the location may need to be altered in the event of adverse weather conditions). We will cover the fundamental skills for controlling your craft and our safety top tips, before journeying further a field, exploring places of interest around the lake! If you're up for it we can hone your skills and build your confidence through some games and challenges which might result in getting a bit wetter! At INTO THE OUTSIDE we are all about bespoke adventures so if you've got the energy why not combine Kayaking with another 1/2 day adventure for the ultimate day out?! We offer Wild Swimming, Canoeing, Guided Walks and Mountain Biking. What's more you could take your lake experience to the next level and stay overnight on a wild Lake District island, see our accommodation listing for Canoe Hammock Camp.

Experience the Lake District from a different perspective, from the water! INTO THE OUTSIDE offer intimate Canoe trips for up to 3 adults. Ideal for couples, individuals, friends and small families wanting a personal adventure in a unique setting! Out of the many beautiful bodies of water here in the Lake District, Ullswater is our number one choice for Canoeing! Please bear in mind that the location may need to be altered for safety reasons in the event of adverse weather conditions (rest assured our back up choices are just as breath taking!) We will meet waterside near Glenridding, and get kitted up! We will teach you the fundamental paddling skills for controlling your canoe safely, before putting then into practice on a journey around Ullswater, exploring places of interest around the lake! See beaches, islands, woodland, wildlife and towering mountains all around! Canoeing is the perfect way to spend a day out connecting with nature, slowing things down and travelling through this incredible landscape in a truly magical way.

If during your stay in the Lake District you want to head for the hills there's no better option than on an INTO THE OUTSIDE guided walk! We know the Lakeland mountains intimately and have so many special hidden treasures we'd love to share with you! INTO THE OUTSIDE Lake District Guided Walks can be tailored to you! Individuals, couples, families and groups all welcome. Under 2's will need to have a carrier they can hop in and well behaved dogs are very welcome! We can go where ever you want! Let us know where you are staying and we can suggest our favourite nearby routes! Whether that's climbing a high peak or two, exploring the most beautiful Lakeland valleys or scrambling one of the majestic ridge lines we have something to suit your time frame, fitness and interests! Once you’ve booked we will design your perfect day out (please bear in mind that the location may need to be altered in the event of adverse weather conditions). At INTO THE OUTSIDE we are all about bespoke adventures so if you've got the energy why not combine Canoeing with another 1/2 day adventure for the ultimate day out?! We offer Wild Swimming, Kayaking, Hiking and Mountain Biking. We can host you too in our Fell View Tipi or in hammocks on a wild Lake District island, see our accommodation listings! *IF THE DATE YOU WANT ISN'T AVAILABLE, MESSAGE US - WE ARE FLEXIBLE*

The Lake District offers brilliant forest, lakeside and hill top mountain bike trails. If bike hire is required it is an additional £25pp. There are routes for everyone from beginners through to experience folk looking for a challenge and some off the beaten track destinations! You are welcome to bring your own bikes providing they are MTB with some suspension and are in good working order. We'll get you kitted out with your hire bikes and helmets, we'll take to the hills and start off honing our skills and gaining confidence. Then after lunch we'll test yours skills on some exhilarating down hill routes! If you are bringing your own mountain bike then we have some other options we can discuss! Let us know where you are staying and we can suggest our favourite nearby routes! At INTO THE OUTSIDE we are all about bespoke adventures so if you've got the energy why not combine Mountain Biking with another 1/2 day adventure for the ultimate day out?! We offer Wild Swimming, Kayaking, Canoeing and Guided Walks. What's more you can take your stay to the next level and sleep overnight in hammocks on a wild Lake District island, see our accommodation listing. *IF THE DATE YOU WANT ISN'T AVAILABLE, MESSAGE US - WE ARE FLEXIBLE*

The Lake District is home to over 200 bodies of water making it a Mecca for aspiring and seasoned wild swimmers alike. The landscape is teeming with river pools, tumbling waterfalls and serene tarns along with the iconic lakes, meres and waters at valley level, all with their own unique Lakeland vista to enjoy during your swim! Swim guides Becki and Dan have made it their mission during their years exploring the area to seek out the most idyllic swim venues to visit, and lead trips all year round. We can provide wetsuits, hats, gloves, boots and tow floats if you would like them or you are welcome to bring your own along with swimwear and towel. Hike in to one of the more remote Lake District mountain tarns or waterfalls. Leave civilisation behind as you disappear into the back and beyond, basking in the wildest of waters all the while gazing at jaw dropping mountain scenery. At INTO THE OUTSIDE we are all about bespoke adventures so if you've got the energy why not combine Wild Swimming with another 1/2 day adventure for the ultimate day out?! We offer Canoeing, Kayaking, Hiking and Mountain Biking. We can host you too in our Fell View Tipi or in hammocks on a wild Lake District island, see our accommodation listings! *IF THE DATE YOU WANT ISN'T AVAILABLE, MESSAGE US - WE ARE FLEXIBLE*

A Mountain Photography Walk Escape the beaten track and discover the beauty of the English Lake District through a guided mountain photography walk. With a knowledgeable and Mountain Training Association qualified Mountain Leader you will explore majestic summits, discover tranquil tarns, develop your photography skills and explore your creativity. Upon meeting, we will start with an overview of the day allowing us to get to know one another and discuss your photography wishes and desires. We will then check we have the correct equipment and start our walk. During the mountain walk we will stop regularly to photograph fast flowing mountain streams, tumbling waterfalls, sparkling tarns and panoramic mountain views. If the weather allows we will enjoy refreshments on a high mountain summit and spend time absorbing the awe inspiring 360 degree views. During our return we will take time to capture the afternoon light and perhaps the setting sun. During the photography stops we will have plenty of time to discuss picture making and explore our creativity. Each walk will last about 7 hours so remember to bring a flask of hot drink and something to eat. This walk is also suitable for non-photographers who just want to travel at a leisurely pace with plenty of time to stop and enjoy the scenery. A recommended equipment list is provided.

For those seeking to make the most of their visit, this tour is the ideal choice. Katie and Claire will guide you along a multitude of historic sites and breathtaking views. You will set the pace. Choose between a walking or running experience. In this tour we’ll visit Hadrian's Wall, the Stanegate Road, and renowned landmarks such as Vindolanda, Chesterholme Mile Stone and Roman Quarry and Settlement, Housesteads, Milecastles 37 and 38, Sycamore Gap, Peel Gap Tower, and the famously elusive Roman carving on Hadrian’s Wall. Claire & Katie will share insights about the most fascinating and unusual aspects of the sites you’ll encounter, explain how geology has shaped the region and its history, spot local wildlife and share some interesting local stories. We’ll stop at various points along the route to take in the views and capture some incredible photos. We also ensure everyone can comfortably enjoy the sites, sounds and spectacular countryside. There will also be an opportunity to rest and refuel at our halfway point. We’ll finish the tour with an opportunity for you to hold a genuine Roman artefact, connecting you directly to the ancient world. This 7-mile circular route will take around 4 hours (walking) or 3 hours (running). There is also a low route option for those seeking less elevation. This tour is perfect for any reasonably fit and active 13 to 80 year old.

Ready for a unique way to explore the lake District? Jump in my 4x4 Land Rover with your partner, friends or family to access hidden gems off the beaten track. This private experience offers a wide variety of vantage points including, lakes, mountains, waterfalls, rivers and streams. An ideal activity for those with an adventurous nature and love of the outdoors. First stop: Kirkstone Pass The Lake District’s highest pass that is open to motor traffic, with an altitude of 1,489 feet, enjoying stunning views including Lake Windermere. Second stop – Stock Ghyll Force – Ambleside A 70 foot waterfall. The perfect place to stretch your legs and take some photos Third Stop: Cathedral Quarry – Elterwater This man-made quarry is more spectacular than pictures alone can convey, with its wonderful echo and tunnels of over 100m long. Forth Stop: Tilberthwaite Farm An off-road track that offers picturesque views, of mountains and countryside surrounding Elterwater and Little Langdale. This private tour is customer centred and fully flexible to suit the group.